[KurzickMushroom]

CH3 C(CH3)(C2H5) CH(C2H5)(CH2)3 CH3


The (CH2)3 near the right hand side is what confuses me. From what I know, each carbon in this structure may only have 4 bonds connected to it.  I don't understand how those 3 methanes are just there.

Thanks in advance.

[azmanam]

(CH₂)_n is a shortcut for a string of methylene groups - that is, a chain of carbon atoms with two hydrogen atoms attached.  It's just a generic carbon chain with no substituents.  I've redrawn what I think is your molecule.  Did I redraw it correctly?  Can you name it now that it's redrawn?  What is your guess so far?

[matsci0000]

In condensed form , the formula of organic compounds are written in this way ([n][/sub]CH).It makes the formula shorter.

For example- C5H10 (n-pentane) can be written as CH3 (CH2)3 CH3.

[cliverlong]

CH3 C(CH3)(C2H5) CH(C2H5)(CH2)3 CH3

The (CH2)3 near the right hand side is what confuses me. From what I know, each carbon in this structure may only have 4 bonds connected to it.  I don't understand how those 3 methanes are just there.

Thanks in advance.

When I have to name such a thing I can never work from the condensed form - the version you have been given

I have to draw the structure of the compound. Then I check that all the carbons have 4 bonds (as you wrote). Then I work out the longest carbon chain - that is the backbone - and start naming from there by adding all the side groups.

Clive

[KurzickMushroom]

Thanks all I think I got it now.